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Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Introduction

Soft cut-out sugar cookies are a delightful treat that many people love to bake. They are perfect for any occasion, from holidays to birthdays, and they bring a smile to everyone’s face. With their soft texture and sweet flavor, these cookies can be shaped into fun designs and decorated beautifully.

Why Make This Recipe

Making soft cut-out sugar cookies is a wonderful way to spend time in the kitchen, whether you’re baking solo or with family and friends. The simple ingredients and easy steps make it accessible for everyone, even beginner bakers. Plus, they offer endless possibilities for decoration, allowing you to express your creativity. These cookies are also a great activity for kids and are perfect for sharing with loved ones.

How to Make Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Royal Icing or Easy Glaze Icing
Assorted sprinkles

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
Next, mix in the dry ingredients on low speed until the dough comes together. If the dough is too sticky, you can adjust with a little more flour.
Divide the dough in half. Roll each portion to about 1/4-inch thickness on a floured piece of parchment paper. Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cut the chilled dough into shapes using cookie cutters. Reroll scraps as needed. Place the cookies on prepared sheets, leaving about 3 inches between each one.
Bake for 11 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.
Once the cookies are cool, decorate them with icing and sprinkles. Allow the icing to set before serving. Store any leftovers in a covered container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer storage.

How to Serve Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Serve these cookies as a sweet treat at parties, gatherings, or simply as a delightful snack at home. They can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of icing and decorations. Pair them with milk, tea, or coffee for a perfect treat.

How to Store Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in a covered container at room temperature. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can refrigerate them. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing them to avoid sogginess.

Tips to Make Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
Don’t skip refrigerating the dough. It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Use a sharp cookie cutter for clean edges.
Experiment with different flavors of extracts or add food coloring to the icing for a fun twist.

Variations

You can easily customize these cookies by adding different flavors or decorations. Try using lemon or orange zest in the dough for a citrus twist. You can also dip the cookies in melted chocolate or use colored icing to match your party theme.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the rolled dough for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and label it.

2. What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, you can simply omit it or replace it with more vanilla extract for a vanilla flavor.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly browned edges. The centers may seem a little soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

Soft cut-out sugar cookies are a delightful and fun way to celebrate any occasion. With these easy steps and a little creativity, you can create a batch that everyone will love!